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Showing posts from March, 2024

Veteran Highlife Musician KK Kabobo Passes Away

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The passing of veteran highlife musician K. K. Kabobo has been confirmed by fellow artist Kaakyire Kwame Appiah on Adom FM's morning show, Dwaso Nsem. KK Kabobo, who had been battling illness for some time, passed away on the morning of Thursday, March 14 due to complications from a liver disease. Related To This: BREAKING: Deputy Finance Minister, Dr. John Kumah, Passes Away According to Kaakyire Kwame Appiah, the Onyame Ehu Wu hitmaker was rushed to the University of Ghana Medical Center (UGMC) on Thursday but unfortunately succumbed upon arrival. This sad news follows shortly after KK Kabobo publicly disclosed his illness just two weeks prior. A Facebook post on behalf of the singer indicated the prolonged nature of his illness and the financial strain it placed on his family for treatment. In response to his health struggles, former President John Mahama, Samira Bawumia, Wendy Shay, and the Ghana Music Rights Organisation (GHAMRO) all publicly contributed towards funding KK Kab

Parliament Summons Transport Minister Over Extra $20 Charge at KIA

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Minister for Transport, Kwaku Ofori Asiamah, has been called to provide urgent explanations to Members of Parliament (MP) regarding a purported new charge imposed by the Ghana Airport Company (GACL) as maintenance fees. Related To This: British Airways Engages With Government on High Operating Costs At KIA Effective May 1, 2024, passengers traveling through Kotoka International Airport in Accra will be mandated to pay a $20 fee for maintenance purposes and to assist in covering the costs of baggage belt repairs. A letter from the management of GACL to the Chairperson of the Airport Operators Committee of Kotoka International Airport revealed the introduction of a new fee for departing travelers. Dated March 11, 2024, and signed by the Managing Director of Ghana Airports Company Limited, Yvonne Nana Afriyie Opare, the letter outlined that the fee would apply to all round-trip tickets. Alongside the announcement of the $20 round-trip airline ticket fee, GACL specified that $10 of the fe

ECG to Disconnect Power to 91 Hospitals Over Outstanding Debts

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The National Taskforce of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) is gearing up to disconnect electricity supply to 91 hospitals across the country because of overdue payments. These health facilities together owe a considerable sum of GH₵261 million to the power distributor. Sources within ECG have revealed that these hospitals will be cut off from electricity within 48 hours of receiving a "demand notice." Related To This: Parliament in Darkness Over GH₵23m Debt to ECG Prominent hospitals such as Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, the 37 Military Hospital, Ridge Hospital in the Greater Accra region, Komfo Anokye and Manhyia Government Hospitals in the Ashanti region, Ho Teaching Hospital in the Volta region, and Kibi Government Hospital in the Eastern region are among those at risk of disconnection. This move is part of a broader initiative by ECG to recover outstanding debts from its customers and improve operational efficiency. Related To This: ECG Disconnects Power to Accra Spo

BIC Relocates to Ivory Coast, Unilever Relocates to Nigeria Amidst Economic Downturns

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The well-known pen company, BIC has moved its pen production activities from Ghana to Ivory Coast as a result of the country's ongoing economic difficulties, according to Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the Minority Leader in Parliament.  This move highlights a trend in which businesses that were once founded in Ghana are choosing to relocate their manufacturing sites to nearby nations in order to take advantage of more advantageous economic conditions. Related To This: We Have Not Turned Any Corner – Mahama Disputes Ofori Atta's Claim On Economic Progress On Monday, March 11, at President Akufo-Addo's 2024 state of the nation speech, the Ajumako-Enyan-Essiam MP asked the government to move quickly to address these issues. He emphasized the dissatisfaction among Ghanaian youth regarding the country's economic management, signaling a pressing need for concerted efforts from those in authority to address these concerns comprehensively. Dr. Ato Forson expressed disappointment ove

Minority Accuses BoG of Fraudulently Wiping off GH¢48 Billion in State Debt

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During the recent debate on the State of the Nation Address (SONA), the Minority in Parliament raised serious allegations against the management of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), accusing them of engaging in illicit actions related to the write-off of approximately GH¢48 billion in government debt. The caucus claims that these activities have resulted in the insolvency of the central bank. Related To This: BoG's 2022 Losses Were Needed To Save Ghana's Economy - BoG Governor Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the Minority Leader, stressed the importance of holding the BoG's management accountable for their actions. He stated, "The Bank of Ghana is now bankrupt and exists in name only. In 2022, the Central Bank reported a staggering loss of over GHȼ60.8 billion and a negative equity exceeding GHȼ55 billion." Furthermore, Forson alleged, "The Governor of the Bank of Ghana and his two deputies unlawfully and excessively printed money to fund the government's inflated expendit

LOC Announces Free Spectator Access to 2023 African Games, Except for VIP Tickets

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Dan Kwaku Yeboah, a member of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) overseeing the 2023 African Games, has announced a surprising decision to grant free access to spectators for the event, excluding VIP tickets. This initiative will come into effect starting Tuesday, March 12, 2024. The move aims to enhance spectator attendance and create a more inclusive environment for the 29 disciplines featured in the 2023 African Games. Yeboah shared during an interview with host Evans Mensah that all tickets, except for VIP passes, will be distributed for free from the specified date. Related To This: Gideon Fosu Named Chairman of WAFU U-17 Cup of Nations LOC for Accra 2024 In line with this announcement, Abdul Majeed Bawa, the Deputy Director General of the National Sports Authority, had earlier disclosed that certain competitions within the games would also be free for spectators. The 2023 African Games in Ghana are expected to host 13,000 participants, including 5,000 athletes, from March 8 to

None of my Children Will Serve Ghana Without Investigation into my Husband's Death - Late John Kumah’s wife

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Apostle Lilian Kumah, the wife of the late Deputy Finance Minister John Kumah, has made a resolute declaration that none of her children will serve the country unless thorough investigations are conducted into the circumstances surrounding her husband's death.  Speaking out against claims made by Blessed Godsbrain Smart, also known as Captain Smart, alleging that her husband died from food poisoning, Mrs. Kumah emphasized the need for justice to prevail. Related To This: Late John Kumah’s Wife Clarifies Cause of Death and Denounces False Claims In an interview with Accra-based Asaase Radio, Mrs. Kumah expressed her dismay, stating, "It is very disappointing. How can a man who dedicated his life to serving the nation have his reputation tarnished by baseless speculations under the guise of journalism? If someone claims to have facts, why hasn't action been taken?" Mrs. Kumah urged President Akufo-Addo to launch a thorough investigation into the alleged poisoning of he

Naana Opoku-Agyemang is Over 70 – Afenyo-Markin

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Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin drew the ire of the opposition when he launched a scathing attack on the personality of John Mahama's running mate, Prof Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang. During the debate on the State of the Nation Address on March 11, the legislator accused Prof Opoku-Agyemang of failing to fulfill her duties in previous government roles and questioned the NDC's decision to select her as the running mate. He suggested that the NDC's leadership choices reflect a lack of foresight and a tendency to maintain the status quo. Related To This: I'm Ready to Serve Ghana With Integrity - Naana Opoku-Agyemang on Appointment as Mahama's Running Mate Afenyo-Markin's remarks triggered a strong reaction from the NDC members, who demanded an immediate retraction and apology from the Majority Leader. The tensions in the chamber escalated, with the Minority caucus expressing their displeasure by banging tables, demanding accountability for the disrespectful c

Former MP Dismisses Suit Against Anti-LGBT+ Bill as "Dead on Arrival"

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Alex Abban, the former Member of Parliament for Gomoa West, has labeled Richard Sky's legal challenge against the anti-LGBT+ Bill as "dead on arrival." Abban pointed out that since the Bill has not yet reached the president for assent, it remains within Parliament's purview and can be recalled, rendering the suit ineffective. Related To This: Finance Ministry's Warning on Anti-LGBT+ Bill Impact on Aid "Hollow" and "Alarmist - NDC Legal Affairs Head During an appearance on the program Big Issues on Citi TV, Abban expressed skepticism about the viability of the legal action against the controversial Bill. Referring to constitutional procedures, he highlighted the significance of Article 106 in the legislative process, emphasizing the role of presidential assent in transforming a passed Bill into law. Given the current status of the Bill and its pending presidential assent, Abban argued that such legal challenges faced hurdles in the absence of a fina

Finance Ministry's Warning on Anti-LGBT+ Bill Impact on Aid "Hollow" and "Alarmist - NDC Legal Affairs Head

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The Head of Legal Affairs of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Godwin Edudzi Tameklo, has raised concerns over the Ministry of Finance's recent warning that Ghana could lose $3.8 billion in aid if the president signs the Anti-LGBT+ Bill into law. Tameklo, speaking on Joy News, described the claim as "hollow" and "alarmist," lacking factual or legal basis. Related To This: We’re Prepared to Face ‘Big 18’ in Court - Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill Advocates He argued that Ghana's engagements with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) are contractual, emphasizing that the funds provided by the IMF are loans, not gifts. Tameklo highlighted that the IMF's support comes with repayment obligations, often at challenging interest rates. Drawing parallels with Uganda, which has stricter anti-LGBT+ legislation, Tameklo pointed out that the IMF recently approved a significant financial package for Uganda despite its harsher laws. He criticized the finance ministry for its st

Okantah-Odumase Residents Seek Police Protection Against Land Grabbing and Violence

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Residents of Okantah-Odumase, a farming community near Nsawam in the Eastern Region, have reached out to the Inspector General of Police (IGP) for assistance in protecting their land.  Following a peaceful demonstration within the community, the residents highlighted the urgent need for police intervention to curb the encroachment of estate developers and land guards on their farms. READ ALSO: Fetish Priest and Two Others Arrested For Murder at Akatsi South During an interview with the Ghana News Agency, Mr. Ebenezer Asamoah, the community's spokesperson, revealed that estate developers had enlisted armed land guards to roam the area, wielding dangerous weapons and destroying residents' farmlands. Asamoah disclosed that approximately 20 acres of farmlands, bearing essential crops like cassava, plantains, cocoyam, and palm nut trees, had fallen victim to these destructive actions. Moreover, the developers had encroached on demarcated land intended for crucial community projects

Former First Lady Lordina Mahama Engages with Kumasi Market Queens

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A group of market queens from Kumasi, in the Ashanti Region, recently visited with former first lady Lordina Dramani Mahama; the market queens had asked to be seen.  The market queens' urgent concerns were discussed during the conference, including the need for better market infrastructure throughout the region, the rise in business expenses, and the depreciation of the Ghana cedi compared to other currencies. READ ALSO: I'm Ready to Serve Ghana With Integrity - Naana Opoku-Agyemang on Appointment as Mahama's Running Mate Mrs. Mahama, who has worked as a market woman for more than thirty years, expressed her support for the market queens and acknowledged their challenges. She promised the group that she will always be there for them, stating that her commitment to their cause is independent of her political views. "I am one of you. I have been a market woman for over 30 years, so I know what you are going through," Mrs. Mahama affirmed, acknowledging the vital rol

Nigeria Halts Controversial Expatriate Levy Amid Backlash

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Following strong opposition, President Bola Tinubu has decided to temporarily halt the implementation of his controversial annual levy, which required companies employing foreign nationals to pay up to $15,000 for directors and $10,000 for other employees.  Following a meeting in Abuja, the Ministry of Interior declared the delay to allow for stakeholder consultations. READ ALSO: Dangote Group and 50 Other Businesses Included in Nigerian Investigation of Former Central Bank Governor Various organizations strongly opposed the fee, which was intended to reduce the exploitation of expatriate quotas and promote employment possibilities for Nigerians while bridging salary gaps. The government's move to reevaluate the levy's effects on the business sector was welcomed by the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA), which cited a commitment to creating an environment that is favorable to both domestic and foreign investors. Groups like

24-Hour Economy is not Feasible Under Current Economic Climate - KSM to Mahama

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Renowned satirist Kwaku Sintim-Misa, popularly known as KSM, has expressed skepticism about the practicality of former President John Dramani Mahama's proposed 24-hour economy in the current economic conditions of Ghana. In an interview on Starr Chat with Bola Ray, KSM emphasized that a thriving economy is a prerequisite for sustaining a 24-hour operational cycle. He cautioned that the current state of Ghana's economy does not support the implementation of such a system. Related To This: Mahama's 24-Hour Economy Is Achievable - US-Based Economist To Bawumia While acknowledging the concept of a 24-hour economy as commendable, KSM advised Mr. Mahama to focus on stabilizing and revitalizing the economy before considering ambitious initiatives like round-the-clock economic activities. Highlighting the need to address the existing economic challenges, KSM stressed the importance of halting the downward trend and implementing corrective measures to restore stability. He emphasize

We Will Focus on Completing Projects Rather Than Starting New Ones - Former President Mahama Pledges

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Former President John Dramani Mahama has outlined his strategy for a potential return to power in 2024, emphasizing a commitment to prioritize the completion of stalled and ongoing projects over the initiation of new ones. Speaking at a townhall meeting in Wa during his "Building the Ghana We Want" tour of the Upper West Region, Mr. Mahama assured the audience that a new NDC government would utilize available resources to finalize abandoned initiatives, such as those at the SD Dombo University for Business and Integrated Development Studies (SDD-UBIDS). Related To This: Private Schools to be Included in Free SHS Policy - John Mahama Highlighting the importance of continuity in development efforts, Mr. Mahama referenced promises made by late President John Evans Atta Mills regarding key projects at the Wa campus of the University for Development Studies (UDS). He expressed his intention to resume and complete these projects, including an ultra-modern library, a lecture hall co

CDD Ghana Advocates for Affirmative Action Bill to Address Women's Marginalization

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Vera Abena Addo, the Center for Democratic Development (CDD) Ghana's Programs Officer, has emphasized the Affirmative Action Bill's crucial importance in addressing the historical marginalization of women in positions of decision-making. Over half of Ghana's population is female, and Madam Addo brought attention to the long-standing exclusion of women from important decision-making processes. She underlined that this exclusion threatens democratic values and inclusivity in addition to impeding progress. READ ALSO: Ghana's Economy Will Be Negatively Impacted If The Anti-LGBTQ Bill Is Passed - CDD Fellow The Affirmative Action Bill recognizes that women have been marginalized and have not participated in decision-making for a long time. This undercuts problems of inclusion and participation, democracy, and development," she said. Madam Addo highlighted the implications of the bill go beyond women's issues, citing evidence that shows improved decision-making outco

Parliament's Press Cops Undergo Reorientation on Revised Standing Orders

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Parliament recently hosted a two-day capacity building workshop at the Aqua Safari Resort in Ada, Greater Accra Region, focusing on the new Standing Orders for the Parliamentary Press Corps. These Standing Orders serve as the written rules governing parliamentary proceedings. Related To This: Parliament to Use Local Languages The updated Standing Orders, approved by the House on December 21, 2023, and implemented on January 2, 2024, aim to address the evolving requirements of Ghana's dynamic parliamentary democracy. Speaker of Parliament, Mr. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, commended the crucial role of the media in enhancing Ghana's democracy during a virtual message to the workshop participants. Speaker Bagbin emphasized the pivotal partnership between Members of Parliament, the parliamentary community, and the press in conducting parliamentary business, which ultimately serves the interests of the people. He highlighted the media's role in bridging the gap between repres

Overcrowding Compromising Healthcare Quality at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital

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The Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital in Kumasi, Ashanti Region, is facing a serious challenge due to the lack of adequate space, which is compromising the quality of healthcare provided. Data from the National Ambulance Service reveals that the hospital receives more emergency cases than any other facility in the country. Related To This: KATH records 500% Hike in Stroke Cases Reports have shown that the accident and emergency center at the hospital, originally designed for 12 patients, is now accommodating over 40 patients, with some even receiving treatment on the floor. Kwame Frimpong, the head of public relations at the hospital, emphasized that the overcrowding is a significant issue affecting patient care. He explained, "There are spaces that were designed for 12. If you go to Komfo Anokye right now, Orange, 12, the minimum we count in a day is 40." Without improved resources, Mr. Frimpong stressed that ensuring quality healthcare for all patients is challenging. READ ALS

Late John Kumah’s Wife Clarifies Cause of Death and Denounces False Claims

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The widow of the late John Kumah, a member of parliament for Ejisu and deputy finance minister, has denied rumors that have been going about that her husband's death was caused by food poisoning. Apostle Lilian Kumah clarified that, in contrast to false information making the rounds in the public domain, her husband had bravely fought a serious illness for almost a full year. Related To This: BREAKING: Deputy Finance Minister, Dr. John Kumah, Passes Away In an interview, Apostle Lilian Kumah revealed that her late husband's German doctors had diagnosed him with a fatal illness, which he had been treating for about a year. She stressed that, contrary to rumors circulated by some, he did not suffer food poisoning; rather, it was this chronic illness that ultimately caused his death on Thursday, March 7, 2024. Putting an end to speculation, Apostle Mrs. Lilian Kumah, who also serves as the General Overseer of Disciples of Christ Ministries, expressed her profound grief and urged i

UN Secretary General Calls For Immediate Ceasefire in Sudan

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Following nearly a year of clashes between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, Antonio Guterres, the UN Secretary General, has called for an immediate ceasefire in Sudan. He specifically appealed to the warring factions to halt hostilities during the upcoming Muslim holy month of Ramadan. Related To This: Sudan's Junta Calls On UN To Immediately Terminate Political Mission Guterres' plea coincides with ongoing negotiations among UN Security Council members regarding a British draft resolution that advocates for an immediate ceasefire and unrestricted humanitarian access. The resolution could potentially be voted on as early as Friday. The UN Secretary General emphasized that a cessation of hostilities must pave the way for a definitive end to violence and establish a solid path towards lasting peace. He expressed grave concern over the escalating humanitarian crisis in Sudan, warning that the situation was rapidly deteriorating in terms of human rights

Satirist KSM Criticizes Construction of National Cathedral, Calls for Funds to Benefit Ghanaians

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During an interview, renowned satirist Kwaku Sintim-Misa, popularly known as KSM, voiced his strong opposition to the construction of the National Cathedral in Ghana. He argued that the substantial financial resources allocated to the project could be better utilized in other areas to improve the lives of Ghanaians. Related To This: We Need US$250 Million to Complete National Cathedral - Rev. Victor Kusi Boateng KSM emphasized that worshiping God does not require grand structures, as the most important place of worship is within one's heart. He questioned the necessity of building a national cathedral, stating that Ghana's prosperity should not be measured by the size of its religious buildings. According to KSM, God's blessings are not contingent on the construction of a cathedral, but rather on the provision of essential social services to the people. He advocated for investments in healthcare facilities to ensure mothers have proper birthing conditions and to address is

NPP's Valentino Nortey Threatens to Sue NDC Chairman over False Accusations

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Valentino Nii Noi Nortey, the New Patriotic Party's (NPP) parliamentary candidate for Klottey Korle Constituency, has announced his intentions to take legal action against Benjamin Kotey Neequaye, the Constituency Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), for making false claims against him in a public setting. READ ALSO: Parliament To Sue Akufo-Addo Over Refusal To Sign Witchcraft Bill A video capturing the NDC Chairman's accusations against Valentino Nii Noi Nortey during an address in Osu was brought to the attention of Nortey's campaign team a few days ago. Nortey denounced the unfounded allegations as a deliberate effort to disrupt peace, exploit sensitive matters in Klottey Korle, besmirch his reputation, jeopardize his political aspirations, and potentially incite severe repercussions. In an interview conducted yesterday, Nii Noi Nortey affirmed his decision to pursue legal recourse against the NDC Chairman. He cited the Chairman's statements implicatin

Terrorism Strikes Nigeria as Insurgents Kidnap Residents in Northeastern Nigeria

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This week, 50 people—mostly women—were kidnapped by suspected Islamist terrorists in northeastern Nigeria, according to reports from local authorities and a resident.  Over the past ten years, there has been a great deal of bloodshed and displacement in Borno state as a result of the activities of Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) members, who have been attacking both civilians and security forces. Related To This: Yobe Governor, Buni's Convoy Attacked By Boko Haram; Six Security Personnel Injured On Monday, a large number of people were abducted in the isolated Gamboru region close to the borders of Cameroon and Chad. A civilian working with the military to support counterinsurgency efforts as a member of the Civilian Joint Task Force revealed that more than fifty individuals from an internally displaced persons camp went out to collect firewood near Lake Chad, which is known to be ISWAP area. The victims were ambushed by armed assailants and forcibly led t

We Need US$250 Million to Complete National Cathedral - Rev. Victor Kusi Boateng

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Rev. Victor Kusi Boateng, a member and secretary of the Board of Trustees overseeing the National Cathedral project, has provided insights into the financial requirements necessary for completing the facility.  With the project facing hurdles due to funding challenges, Kusi Boateng emphasized the need for supporters to consider the anticipated benefits upon the project's conclusion. Related To This: NDC MPs Commission Unfinished National Cathedral Project In an interview on Onua FM on March 7, 2024, Kusi Boateng highlighted the significance of raising an estimated amount ranging from US$200 million to US$250 million to finalize the National Cathedral. He urged stakeholders to focus on the project's positive impacts on Ghana and underscored the financial advantages that would accompany its completion, calling for unity in gratitude towards God for the nation's blessings. Comparing the project to similar endeavors in other countries, Kusi Boateng noted that Ghana's Natio

Afia Schwarzenegger Slams NDC MPs for 'Commissioning' National Cathedral Project

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In a vocal critique, Ghanaian socialite Afia Schwarzenegger has condemned some members of the Minority Caucus in Parliament, including MPs Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Samuel Nartey George, and Nii Lante Vanderpuye, for their recent 'commissioning' of the unfinished National Cathedral project as a means to mock the government. She labeled their actions as 'childish' and unsuitable given their influential roles in society. Related To This: NDC MPs Commission Unfinished National Cathedral Project Questioning the motives behind the MPs' behavior, Afia Schwarzenegger raised comparisons to former President John Dramani Mahama's project completion record, insinuating that such antics demonstrate immaturity rather than genuine political engagement. She further suggested that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) might face prolonged opposition due to what she perceives as their ineffective approach to criticizing President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo's administration